William Smith, a prominent South African educator known for his pioneering work in science and maths education, died on Wednesday, 21 August 2024. He was 85.
Story Summary:
- Renowned South African science and maths educator William Smith has passed away at the age of 85 after a short battle with cancer.
- Smith was celebrated for his work in education, particularly for his maths and science TV lessons, and was awarded the Order of the Baobab in Silver.
- Tributes are pouring in from various figures, acknowledging his immense contribution to South African education and conservation.
William Smith dies: What’s the cause of death?
According to reports, Smith succumbed to cancer after a brief battle with the illness.
He died surrounded by family in Perth, Australia.
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His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in South African education, where he was instrumental in making complex subjects like mathematics and science accessible to generations of students.
William Smith biography
William Macdonald Smith was born on 25 June 1939 in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), South Africa.
He was the son of the distinguished ichthyologists Margaret Mary Smith and Professor J. L. B. Smith, who famously identified the coelacanth.
William’s early education took place at St Andrew’s Prep and Union High School in Graaff-Reinet before he pursued higher education at Rhodes University.
He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics and chemistry, followed by an honours degree in chemistry and a master’s degree from the University of Natal.
Smith initially worked at African Explosives and Chemical Industries (AECI) but soon shifted to a teaching career.
He founded ‘Star Schools,’ aimed at providing quality education to help students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, prepare for their matriculation exams.
In the 1990s, Smith became a household name in South Africa through his educational television programs on The Learning Channel, which made complex subjects like maths and science accessible to students across the country.
Throughout his career, Smith received numerous accolades, including the Order of the Baobab in Silver in 2019, recognising his contribution to education in South Africa.
Beyond education, Smith was also a passionate conservationist, owning the Featherbed Nature Reserve in Knysna until 2008.
Reactions to Smith’s death
Smith’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from various quarters.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde expressed his condolences, saying:
“I am so sorry to hear of the passing of William Smith. He made such a difference for Maths and Science learners far and wide. William will also be fondly remembered for promoting tourism in Knysna along with his wife Jenny.”
Journalist Jenni Evans also paid tribute to Smith, stating:
“William Smith deserves to rest in perfect peace for his incredible service to the maths-challenged of the nation (like me). Lots of love to his family, for letting him do all that extra maths, in my case at the Wits holiday school, via a train ride from Krugersdorp.”
Here are more reactions we picked:
